About Rolling Cannabis Applications in the Virgin Islands

Virgin Islands: A Unique Process For Licensure

We’re all excited to see what will be coming up soon from the U.S. Virgin Islands, what is sure to be one of, if not the most, luxurious and beautiful cannabis destinations not just as part of the U.S. but in the world. Who doesn’t love the thought of enjoying an edible on the beach gazing out onto the Caribbean Sea? But it’s not just the destination we’re eager for, it’s the process for business licensure (alright that may not be AS glamorous but is still important!).

Here are some quick details on understanding what makes the USVI cannabis application unique and what you can do to get a license.  

Rolling License Applications

Typically, states will have a designated cannabis license application window. Look most recently at Kentucky, which had a 60-day application window and saw nearly 5,000 application submissions. This will be different in the U.S. Virgin Islands in that they don’t plan to have a close date for application submissions but instead will have rolling applications. This means once applications can be submitted, the USVI Office of Cannabis Regulations will begin reviewing and award licenses based on who comes first and who succeeds in meeting all qualifications. This process could go on for a few weeks, for months or potentially years depending on what quality applications are submitted (though we doubt this will happen given the demand for adult-use cannabis).  

Apply For A Cannabis License Early

As previously indicated, once cannabis applications begin being accepted, time becomes the biggest factor. Sometimes it doesn’t matter when you apply within the application window as applications will be graded in random order. Other times it’s vital to get in as soon as possible. This is the case with the USVI. You will want to apply early. The earlier the better.  

Here’s an example. If you’re a well-qualified applicant but wait and there are three other well qualified applicants who apply for the three dispensary licenses available on the island of St. John, you as a fourth well-qualified submitted applicant will lose out. This is why early preparation is so key with a rolling license application and with a merit-based application, like what will happen with the USVI.  

Preparing For USVI Cannabis Now

We know from the Office of Cannabis Regulations that applications will begin being accepted soon. We have had timelines announced previously, but then recanted, and are waiting on when a firmer timeline will be announced. With this in mind, it’s important to prepare accordingly so you don’t miss out. Now is the ideal time to begin financial modeling, business planning, and seeking our license pursuit writers capable of handling such an in-depth and arduous application as is expected with the USVI.  

At Canna Advisors, we’re more than able to help with all your cannabis and hemp needs and want you to succeed in this growing, thriving, and ever changing market. We have decades of experience helping cannabis businesses get started across the United States, its territories, and abroad.

Contact our Virgin Islands Cannabis Consultants today or get your top questions answered with an hourly consultation session.